UnionBank of the Philippines, a staunch advocate for empowering Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), has teamed up with By Retail Lab, a premier lifestyle store spotlighting Filipino-owned brands, for the Soiree by Retail Lab, the largest holiday fair in the country.
Set to take place on December 6-8 and 14-15, 2024, at The Fifth at Rockwell, Makati City, the event will feature over 170 Filipino entrepreneurs and businesses showcasing creativity, innovation, and craftsmanship. UnionBank’s UB Negosyante program is pivotal in this year’s Soiree, equipping SMEs with the tools to thrive in today’s tech-driven marketplace.
Driving growth through innovation
“UnionBank is committed to providing Filipino entrepreneurs with the ‘Power to Grow’ through financial solutions designed specifically for their needs.
By making it easier for consumers to support local merchants, we help SMEs thrive in a competitive economy,” said Dino Velasco, UnionBank’s Head of Institutional Segment Marketing.
Through the partnership, UnionBank supports these businesses and promotes sustainable and tech-forward practices, fostering resilience in a fast-paced retail landscape.
Empowering local businesses
At Soiree by Retail Lab, entrepreneurs will showcase their products while benefiting from cashless payment solutions and tools that streamline their financial processes. UnionBank’s offerings, such as the BizStarter Checking Account, are tailored for SMEs and require a low initial deposit of P5,000, making banking more accessible to small business owners.
Accompanying this is the UB Negosyante App, a mobile platform designed to simplify financial management. The app enables entrepreneurs to manage, collect, and pay funds seamlessly, while the QRPH code feature ensures efficient payment processing—perfect for dynamic retail environments like Soiree.
A platform for progress
Soiree by Retail Lab is more than just a shopping event—it’s a platform that champions local talent and creates opportunities for Filipino entrepreneurs to grow,” Velasco said.
“UnionBank is proud to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with SMEs, providing them with the support they need to realize their full potential and contribute to a brighter economic future,” Velasco added.
The partnership underscores UnionBank’s mission to empower SMEs, which are vital to the country’s economy. By leveraging technology and innovation, UnionBank and By Retail Lab aims to transform the holiday fair into a showcase of Filipino ingenuity and a catalyst for entrepreneurial growth.